The 2025 MotorTrend Power List highlights the auto industry's key figures who are leading both innovations and stirring controversies. Here's a closer look at the personalities shaping the automotive landscape, for better or worse.
- Carlos Tavares, former CEO of Stellantis, witnessed the company's decline, resulting in his resignation.
- Pham Nhat Vuong of VinFast is determined to transform a Vietnamese EV startup into a global player despite facing numerous challenges.
- Henrik Fisker encountered a tumultuous path, leading his second venture into bankruptcy.
- Lawrence Stroll is revitalizing Aston Martin with impressive new models.
- Stella Li is expanding BYD into global markets, unsettling North American competitors.
- Mate Rimac continues to innovate with new Bugatti and Rimac launches.
- Simon Humphries is spearheading Toyota's design transformation with striking vehicles.
- Max Verstappen, renowned in F1, paves the way as Cadillac plans to enter the field in 2026.
- Mark Reuss at GM is leading profitable EV launches and pursuing F1 ambitions.
- Dianne Craig is redefining Lincoln's luxury lineup with the successful Nautilus.
- Mary Barra of GM remains resilient amidst challenging transitions, reinforcing U.S. sales leadership.
- Elon Musk of Tesla continues to wield significant influence over future mobility policies, despite recent challenges.
- Jensen Huang of Nvidia is revolutionizing AI in self-driving technology, emerging as a visionary for autonomous vehicles.
- Tim Kuniskis of Stellantis is guiding Ram towards a promising future amidst corporate upheaval.
- RJ Scaringe of Rivian is partnering with VW, sharing technology to stabilize finances and drive growth.
1. Jose Muñoz, Hyundai's President and CEO, is honored as MotorTrend's Person of the Year for his substantial impact on the industry.
2. Donald Trump, influencing regulatory landscapes with unpredictable policies that pose challenges for automakers.
3. Elon Musk, consistently controversial yet undeniably powerful, is leading Tesla into a new era despite increasing competition.
The 2025 MotorTrend Power List underscores the dynamic nature of the auto industry, where innovation, strategic shifts, and decisive leadership are orchestrating the future of mobility. These influential figures are navigating through triumphs and tribulations, shaping an evolving automotive world where their decisions resonate globally. Join us as we explore the lives and legacies that will propel the industry forward in 2025 and beyond.
